What Causes Mold in Homes?

Mold plays a vital role in nature, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients in our ecosystems. However, while mold is beneficial outdoors, it poses serious risks indoors. Mold growth in homes can lead to health hazards and significant property damage. Mold spores are virtually everywhere, including inside our homes, but they need specific conditions to thrive. Unfortunately, the ingredients for mold growth—food sources like drywall and wood, warmth, darkness, and moisture—are commonly found in most homes.

Common Causes of Mold Growth in Homes and How to Prevent It

1. Flooding

Cause: Flooding can bring a huge amount of water into your home, causing severe water damage and possibly mold growth within 24-48 hours.

Tip: Contact PuroClean of Covington immediately after a flood to mitigate water damage and prevent mold growth. We have the tools and expertise to quickly extract water, dry affected areas, and treat any mold that may have started to grow. We also, take preventive measures, such as installing water barriers or improving drainage around your home.

2. Increased Humidity

Cause: In this Louisiana heat, increased humidity can occur in homes in many ways — humid weather, continuous rain, cooking, showering, etc.

Tip: To help prevent mold growth in your home, make sure your house is well-ventilated and keep the humidity below 55%. Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to control indoor humidity, especially in areas prone to moisture, like basements and bathrooms. Place fans in damp areas and use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.

3. Insufficient Ventilation

Cause: Insufficient ventilation increases humidity, leading to mold growth and indoor pollution.

Tip: Open windows and doors when possible, and use fans as needed. Ventilate moisture-generating areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms, using exhaust fans. Ensure that your dryer vents to the outside, and consider using an air purifier to maintain air quality.

4. Leaking Pipes

Cause: Leaking pipes are a common problem in homes and must be fixed immediately. Oftentimes, leaks are hidden from view, such as inside walls.

Tip: Regularly inspect walls for water stains and check under sinks and around appliances like dishwashers for leaks. Prompt repairs can prevent small leaks from becoming major issues. Consider installing water detection sensors in high-risk areas to catch leaks early.

5. Roof Leaks

Cause: Roof leaks are also a way for water to seep into your home and cause mold.

Tip: If you notice water stains on your ceiling, inspect your attic and have your roof checked and repaired as soon as possible. Regularly inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, and keep gutters clean to ensure proper drainage and prevent water backup.

6. Condensation

Cause: Condensation occurs when warm moisture-laden air comes in contact with cold surfaces. Condensation can be visible on walls, windows, concrete floors, or metal pipes.

Tip: Reduce condensation by adjusting your home’s humidity levels. Insulate cold surfaces like pipes and walls to prevent condensation. In bathrooms, run the exhaust fan during and after showers to remove moisture-laden air.

7. Basements

Cause: Basements provide excellent mold growth conditions due to poor ventilation, cooler temperatures (that promote condensation), and frequent water leaks and flooding.

Tip: Ensure your basement is well-ventilated and use a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels low. Regularly inspect the basement for leaks and water damage. Consider installing a sump pump to manage water intrusion and waterproofing the basement walls and floor.

Contact PuroClean of Covington, LA for Mold Removal and Restoration Services

Mold can grow in unexpected areas, making remediation a challenge. For comprehensive mold removal, fire and water restoration services, trust PuroClean of Covington. Our technicians are IICRC trained to handle mold infestations of all sizes, using advanced equipment and proven techniques to eliminate mold and prevent its return. We offer a full range of restoration services to address water and fire damage, helping to restore your home to its pre-damage condition.

Protect your home and health with reliable, effective solutions from PuroClean.